Normal, Atypical (Dysplastic) and Malignant Nevi

Nevi are skin lesions that often begin to grow in childhood or have appeared
on the skin by early adult life. Nevi may go unnoticed – or they
may become a nuisance if rubbing against clothing and getting in the way
of shaving.

Normal Nevi

Appear 6 to 12 months after birth

Expand in proportion to body growth

Smaller than 5 mm in diameter

Evenly pigmented or symmetrically speckled tan or brown

Discrete, well-demarcated, smooth borders

Number 10 to 40; scattered over the entire body

Enlarge and increase in number during childhood and puberty

More prominent during pregnancy

Present on sun-exposed surfaces above the waist

Do not appear on the scalp, breast, and buttocks

Atypical (Dysplastic) Nevi

Intermediate between acquired moles and melanoma (gross and microscopic
appearance)

It is essential that you speak with your dermatologist if you detect any
of the signs of atypical or malignant lesions. Digital dermatoscopy, noninvasive
method allowing evaluation of colors and microstructures nevi takes only minutes.